Barcelona lining up a move for Chelsea star in the summer

onFebruary 14, 2013

Barcelona manager Tito Vilanova has identified Chelsea defender David Luiz as a potential target this summer and the Blues would have a tough time keeping hold of the Brazilian at the end of the season. Barca have struggled with a host of defensive injuries and Vilanova wants the club to sanction a big money move for Luiz this summer.

The 25 year-old moved to Stamford Bridge from Benfica in January 2011 and the Brazil international has since become an integral part of the Blues’ first team. Luiz played an crucial role in Chelsea’s Champions League triumph last season, playing the entire 120 minutes of the final and even scoring in the penalty shootout.

Vilanova had often been left with too few options in defence when Carles Puyol and Gerard Pique picked up injuries earlier this season. The manager had been forced to employ midfielders Javier Mascherano and Alex Song in defence to deal with the situation and the manager is now keen on spending big to bring in defensive reinforcements, with Luiz understood to be his top priority, according to the Daily Star.

Chelsea are not interested in offloading a first team defender although they could consider a sale if Barca make a sizeable offer. Luiz has proven his versatility by playing in midfield this season and the Blues will not be forced to sell the defender on the cheap as his contract with the club runs until 2017.